Bureau for Employers' Activities (ACT/EMP) Interregional Programme:
"Employer Organization Action against Child Labour"

Brief description

The ACT/EMP programme is part of the child labour component of the ILO-Norway Framework Agreement, which promotes tripartite and joint worker-employer action against child labour by strengthening the capacity of the constituents, promoting cooperation and the formation of tripartite bodies at national level. The programme targets in particular the worst forms of child labour in commercial agriculture.
In Azerbaijan, the implementing partner is the national employers' organization, ASK. The first phase of the project was launched in mid-2004 and focused on combating child labour in the cotton growing regions of the country. A rapid assessment survey was conducted to determine the prevalence and nature of child labour in 8 cotton growing regions. This was followed by a national media campaign and the development of training and advocacy materials aimed at sensitizing employers and other stakeholders. In the ongoing 2006-2007 phase, ASK will expand its activities to eight tobacco and tea-growing regions, namely Zagatala, Sheki, Belakan, Gax (tobacco) and Lenkoran, Astara, Lerik, Masalli (tea), applying the same strategy and collaborating closely with the Government, trade unions and other relevant stakeholders to combat child labour.
In Georgia, the implementing partner organization is the Georgia Employers' Association (GEA). The project was launched in November 2006. Plans are currently underway to conduct a rapid assessment survey to determine the extent and nature of child labour in two selected horticulture producing regions, Shida Kartli and Achara. Thereafter the GEA will raise awareness on child labour issues among company managers, entrepreneurs and the public in general. The GEA will also instigate and facilitate a network of civil society actors, trade unions, state authorities, NGOs and other relevant stakeholders whose objectives are to combat child labour in the country.